Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a highly contagious infection that is transmitted through sexual or skin-to-skin contact.

The majority of men and women will acquire HPV at some time in their lives, though most infections are cleared by the immune system within two years.

Persistent HPV infection causes cervical cancer in women and anogenital cancers and warts in both sexes.

Vaccines are available that target HPV

More information is available at:

www.euro.who.int/cervical-cancer

HPV vaccines are close to 100% effective in preventing the persistent HPV infections that cause 70% of cervical cancer.

The most common side effects are mild and resolve after a short time. Serious reactions to the HPV vaccines are extremely rare.

HPVVACCINATION

Cervical cancer in the European Region

2ndmost common cancer among women aged 15-44 years

1 in 100women will develop cervical cancer

28 000deaths each year